**Recipe Name:** Cheddar Cauliflower and Roasted Garlic Soup with Sour Cream and Bacon Bites.
Total time: 1 hour
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
**Introduction:**
Gather everyone for a bowl of coziness with this delightful Cheddar Cauliflower and Roasted Garlic Soup. A warm and filling delight for those cool, laid-back evenings at home.
**Why Make this Recipe:**
This is an excellent soup recipe because it brings together classic flavors like cheddar and garlic, but with a hearty cauliflower base. It’s ideal for vegetarians who crave a rich, cheesy soup, but want an alternative to traditional options. The bacon bites and sour cream add a luscious texture and flavor that complements the cheddar and cauliflower perfectly.
**How to Make Cheddar Cauliflower and Roasted Garlic Soup with Sour Cream and Bacon Bites:**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
– 2 whole garlic bulbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
**Directions:**
1. Start by roasting garlic and cauliflower at 400°F (200°C) in your oven. The garlic bulbs should be topped with olive oil, wrapped in foil and placed in the oven. The cauliflower florets should be tossed with olive oil, salt and pepper and spread on a baking sheet. Allow both to roast for 30-35 minutes or until they’re golden.
2. Next, squeeze the garlic cloves out of their skins and add them to a large pot, along with the roasted cauliflower and vegetable broth. Use a blender to puree until smooth.
3. Transfer the puree into a pot, place it over medium heat and add cheddar cheese and heavy cream. Stir until the cheese melts and the soup is hot. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with a dollop of sour cream, crumbled bacon, and a sprinkle of fresh chives for garnish.
**How to Serve Cheddar Cauliflower and Roasted Garlic Soup with Sour Cream and Bacon Bites:**
Serve this creamy soup hot, as a main course or a starter, with a side dish of crispy bread or a light salad.
**How to Store Cheddar Cauliflower and Roasted Garlic Soup with Sour Cream and Bacon Bites:**
Keep this soup in an airtight container in your refrigerator. Reheat in a pot over medium heat when ready to serve. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup once cooled.
**Tips to Make Cheddar Cauliflower and Roasted Garlic Soup with Sour Cream and Bacon Bites:**
– Make sure to roast the cauliflower and garlic until they’re just golden. This will give your soup the sweet and nutty flavors of caramelization.
– Keep your heat at medium when melting the cheese, to prevent it from burning or sticking to your pot.
**Variation (If any):**
For a lighter version, use low-fat cream and half the amount of cheese.
**FAQs:**
– **Can I use another vegetable broth instead of vegetable broth?**
Yes, chicken, beef or mushroom broth can be used in the place of vegetable broth.
– **I don’t have fresh garlic. Can I use garlic powder?**
Yes, you can use 1/8 tablespoon of garlic powder per clove.
– **Can I use another type of cheese?**
Yes, you can substitute cheddar with another cheese that melts well, such as Swiss, Gruyere or Mozzarella.
Enjoy a bowl of hearty comfort with this Cheddar Cauliflower and Roasted Garlic Soup with Sour Cream and Bacon Bites!